Shelvey Shines in England Under 21s Victory

Steven Caulker grabbed the opener for England. Picture: Getty

Goals Steven Caulker and Jonjo Shelvey either side of half-time helped England Under 21s negotiate a well-earned win in Baku against Azerbaijan last night.

Stuart Pearce’s side now go into an exciting top of the table clash against Norway at Chesterfield on Monday night. The sides are only two points apart at the top of their group.

England could have won by a bigger margin had it not been for Wilfred Zaha and Marvin Sordell’s efforts being kept out superbly by Azerbaijan goalkeeper Salahat Aghayev.

With five members of the Team GB side that competed at London 2012, Pearce was pleased with the way his side came together, despite not playing a fixture in six months.

Tom Ince made his debut and regularly threatened, sending an early shot just wide of the post.

Shelvey was brilliant in the opening goal for England as his perfectly placed free-kick landed spot on Caulker’s head and the defender headed into the open goal.

Ben Amos was called into action in the second half as he dealt with Javid Imamverdiyev’s multiple chances.

Conor Wickham’s flick set up the final goal as he headed on to the advancing Shelvey who had the simple task of placing past the goalkeeper.

The last remaining tickets are on sale for the final group decider at the Proact Stadium on Monday. Call 01246 488232 or email tickets@chesterfield-fc.co.uk or book online at www.chesterfield-fc.co.uk